The official currency is the North Korean Won (KPW). However, tourists are not permitted to use KPW for purchases. Instead, you use foreign currencies, mainly Euros, US Dollars, and Chinese Yuan (RMB), at designated tourist shops, hotels, and restaurants.
Exchange rates are fixed and often unfavorable. Credit cards are not accepted for tourists, making cash the only payment way of personal purchases.
Tipping is not a customary practice in North Korea. Guides and vehicle operators are state employees, and their salaries do not rely on tips.
Some tourists may offer small gifts or tokens of appreciation at the end of a tour, but this is not expected. If you wish to provide a gift, consult your tour operator or guide for appropriate items.
€250-€500 per day
€1,000-€1,500 (excluding international flights to transit city)
Not available.
€200-€400 per day
€1,500-€2,500 (excluding international flights to transit city)
May include slightly better hotels or more extensive itineraries.
€400-€600+ per day
€3,000+ (excluding international flights to transit city)
Personalized excursions, higher-end accommodations, or more exclusive experiences.
Conventional money-saving strategies are not applicable for tourists due to the mandatory tour package system. All significant costs are pre-paid.
Any additional spending on souvenirs or drinks is set to be in foreign currency. The main way to "save" is via selecting a shorter or more basic tour package.
Opt for shorter tours to reduce overall costs.
Basic tour packages are generally less expensive.
Credit cards are not accepted for tourists; cash is the one and only payment method.
Allocate foreign currency for souvenirs or personal items.
All essential travel costs (accommodation, meals, transport, attractions) are covered.
Understand the precautions and resources available for health and safety.
No specific vaccinations are needed for entry. However, consider recommended vaccinations for travel to the region.
Unfamiliar food or water can sometimes cause stomach upset. Air pollution can be a concern, notably during winter months. Colds and flu are common, especially in colder seasons.
July and August bring monsoon season, which causes localized flooding. Severe cold is a season-based hazard during winter months. Typhoons may occasionally influence the region in late summer or early autumn, though direct hits on Pyongyang are less common. Earthquakes are rare but possible.
You are unlikely to use local emergency lines directly. Your accompanying guides handle all emergencies, contacting local authorities or foreign embassy staff as required.
Your guides escort you and manage all communication with local authorities or foreign embassy staff during any emergency. You will not navigate emergency situations independently.
Provide contact information for your country's embassy or consulate in Pyongyang (if one exists), or the nearest one (e.g., in Beijing), to your tour operator before travel.
Your original passport and the separate paper visa issued by your tour operator are critical. Do not lose the visa.
Passport valid for 6+ months.
Lost visa results in serious issues.
Carry printed and digital copies of your policy, including emergency contact numbers. Verify North Korea coverage.
Comprehensive coverage, including evacuation.
Lack of particular coverage causes issues.
Bring vaccination records and, for prescription medications, a doctor's note in original packaging.
Clear documentation for all medications.
Missing documentation leads through customs delays.
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tour Itinerary | Outline of your visit | Offered by tour operator |
| Flight/Hotel Bookings | Confirmation of arrangements | Printed and digital copies |
| Emergency Contacts | Contact list for families/embassy | Share with tour operator |
Pack clothing suitable for the season of your visit, keeping layering and cultural modesty in mind.
Pack light layers, including sweaters, cardigans, and a Light jacket. Easy-to-wear pants or skirts work well. Evenings can be cool.
Bring lightweight, breathable clothing. An Umbrella or a Rain jacket is vital for monsoon season. Long sleeves help with Sun protection.
Heavy winter coats, thermal layers, hats, Gloves, and scarves are necessary. Waterproof boots are useful for snow and ice.
Modesty is recommended, especially at significant monuments, religious sites, or public events. Ensure shoulders and knees are covered.
Avoid overly casual, revealing, or brightly patterned clothing that might draw undue attention. For Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, formal or semi-formal attire is often needed.
Men should wear a dress shirt and tie; ladies should wear a dress or smart trousers. If your itinerary includes any outdoor excursions, comfortable Walking shoes or light hiking boots are suitable.
Pack Swimwear if your hotel has a pool.
Comfortable walking shoes are necessary, as tours include significant walking at attractions.
Consider bringing dressier shoes for formal dinners or specific, more formal sites.
For winter visits, waterproof boots are useful for snow and ice conditions.
Modesty in dress is a sign of adherence to local customs. Revealing or overly informal attire is not appropriate, especially at official sites.
Tourist activities in Pyongyang are highly structured, meaning you generally do not need specific equipment beyond comfortable walking shoes.
No specific equipment beyond comfortable walking shoes is typically needed.
Any excursions, like quick walks in scenic areas, do not demand specialized hiking or climbing gear.
This consideration is not applicable; options for renting activity-specific equipment are not available.
